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Real members of MyLymphomaTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Can anyone let me know what their doctor thinks about itching as a symptom of lymphoma or what they recommend

A MyLymphomaTeam Member asked a question 💭
Chicago, IL
June 8
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A MyLymphomaTeam Member

I’ve had it on my scalp with one of the outbreaks too. Thank you for the info on meds. I’ll definitely keep in mind when I see my dermatologist.

June 14
MyLymphomaTeam

Itching is a well-recognized symptom of lymphoma. Doctors believe it happens because the immune system releases chemicals to fight lymphoma cells, and those chemicals can irritate nearby nerves — causing that maddening itch.

It can affect one specific area near a lymph node, or it can spread all over the body. It often Show Full Answer

Itching is a well-recognized symptom of lymphoma. Doctors believe it happens because the immune system releases chemicals to fight lymphoma cells, and those chemicals can irritate nearby nerves — causing that maddening itch.

It can affect one specific area near a lymph node, or it can spread all over the body. It often gets worse at night or in the heat. The good news is that itching often improves once lymphoma treatment begins. In the meantime, doctors commonly recommend a mix of approaches:

- Moisturizing regularly with gentle, fragrance-free products
- Topical steroid creams (prescription strength)
- Antihistamines, especially sedating ones before bed
- Over-the-counter anti-itch creams with menthol or camphor
- Oatmeal baths or cool compresses
- Wearing soft, loose-fitting clothing
- Avoiding scratching (easier said than done, we know!)
- Medications like Pregabalin, Gabapentin, or antidepressants in more persistent cases

Some MyLymphomaTeam members have found relief using aloe vera for inflammation, while others have had success with prescription ointments from their dermatologist.

If the itching involves bumps or lesions, it's worth asking your doctor specifically about a condition called prurigo nodularis, which can be associated with lymphoma.

June 8
A MyLymphomaTeam Member

Hi Sheree -
Hope you’re well and was able to get your nap in today! vitamins are a necessity for me as well
- take care
Michelle

June 12
A MyLymphomaTeam Member

This just started for me last night. Woke up wanting to scratch my skin off on my legs ,back, abdomin and chest area. Red welts this morning as well. I took reactine for the histamine reaction and bought a new barrier cream as my old one, which I used last night exp 2020. Fun. Just gets better and better. Not. Laying down for a nap as I'm so tired I can't stay awake.
I have my first full consultation at the BC Cancer Clinic Monday. 3 hour apt. We'll see where we go from there.

June 11 (edited)
A MyLymphomaTeam Member

I’m glad to know I’m not crazy (although the itching can drive me that way 😝). I’ve broken out with hives several times in the last 6 months and it seems to be getting more frequent. I try to take an antihistamine every day but on the days I forget, the itching appears out of nowhere. A cool or slightly warm shower has helped some while the meds are kicking in. Sounds like some have needed something stronger, so I’ll know what to do. Best of luck to all with these frustrating symptoms. 😬

June 14

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Itching - what do you do about it?

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Palm Harbor, FL
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